What Is Dental Bonding?
Dental bonding is a procedure that involves using composite resin, the same material used for composite fillings, to reshape a tooth. It can effectively repair teeth that are chipped, cracked, or broken through a process called Bonded Restoration. This restoration not only brings the tooth back to its original condition but also lasts a long time with regular care. In addition, dental bonding is a great way to enhance the appearance of a smile by reshaping teeth, improving their colour, and closing gaps, all without the need for veneers or braces.
What sets dental bonding apart from other options?
There are various options available for restoring your teeth or achieving your ideal smile. The most suitable choice for you depends on your specific needs, which can be discussed during your appointment. Dental bonding offers several benefits, including versatility in addressing issues like chips, cracks, discolouration, and gaps. It is a minimally invasive procedure that requires minimal tooth preparation.
Additionally, dental bonding is an affordable option compared to alternatives like veneers or crowns. It is a convenient and efficient treatment that can be completed in just one visit to the dentist.
Quick and painless
Unlike fillings or dental veneers that often require drilling to prepare the tooth for treatment, dental bonding typically involves minimal to no removal of your natural tooth. As a result, the bonding procedure is usually painless since very little, if any, of your tooth structure needs to be altered.
Low upfront cost
Comprehensive treatments like dental veneers and orthodontics often come with a higher cost, which is justified by the need for personalized and intricate treatment plans to achieve significant transformations. However, when it comes to minor changes involving a few teeth, dental bonding offers a straightforward and cost-effective solution.
Great for small repairs
It is worth emphasizing that if you have substantial changes in mind for your smile, a comprehensive treatment plan that may involve dental veneers, crowns, or orthodontics would be beneficial. However, for minor changes, dental bonding remains the simplest and most straightforward solution.
The Dental Bonding Process
Regardless of whether you are opting for dental bonding to restore a tooth or purely for aesthetic purposes, the process remains consistent.
Here is what you can anticipate during your dental bonding appointment:
Preparing the tooth
To commence the dental bonding process, a thin plastic film called a dental matrix is placed between your teeth, providing protection to the neighbouring teeth from any preparation gel or composite resin. Following this, your dentist will meticulously clean and dry the tooth before applying a mildly acidic gel for a brief period. This gel creates a slightly rough surface on the tooth, facilitating the bonding material to adhere effectively.
Applying the composite resin
After cleaning away the acidic gel and ensuring the tooth is dry, the dentist proceeds to apply the composite resin. They will carefully select a resin shade that matches the colour of your teeth, ensuring a natural-looking result. The composite resin is applied in layers, with each layer being cured using a special blue light. This curing process maximizes the strength and durability of the bonding material.
Finishing touches
Once your bite is checked and adjusted if needed, the dental bonding procedure is considered complete. As a final step, the dentist will give your newly bonded tooth a gentle polish, ensuring a beautiful and natural appearance. You may find it difficult to distinguish the bonded tooth from the rest. A record will be made in your dental chart, and during your future examinations, the dentist will pay special attention to the bonded tooth to assess any signs of wear or damage.
Cost Of A Dental Bonding
The cost of dental bonding varies depending on individual needs and the condition of your teeth. On average, dental bonding typically ranges from $300 to $600 or more per tooth without insurance coverage. Fortunately, most insurance companies cover dental bonding, especially for restoring broken or damaged teeth. With insurance, your out-of-pocket expense usually falls around $60 to $120.
However, it’s important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary. To get a more precise estimate, it’s recommended to consult with your dentist and insurance provider.
Factors that can influence the cost of dental bonding include:
- Number of teeth requiring bonding
- Need for new x-rays
- Amount of composite resin needed
- Location of the teeth in your mouth
- Current overall oral health
Please keep in mind that it is not possible for a dentist to provide an accurate quote over the phone. We would be delighted to give you an accurate quote in person after conducting an examination. This way, you can receive the final cost details and make an informed decision.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
The duration of a dental bonding procedure varies depending on the number of teeth being treated and the complexity of the case. Generally, bonding a single tooth takes about 30 minutes to an hour. If multiple teeth require bonding, the appointment may take longer.
Yes, dental bonding is an excellent option for restoring chipped or cracked teeth. The composite resin material used in bonding can effectively repair and reshape damaged teeth, restoring their natural appearance and function.
Absolutely! Dental bonding can be used to improve the appearance of discoloured or stained teeth. The composite resin can be colour-matched to your natural teeth, helping to blend the bonded tooth seamlessly with the rest of your smile.
After getting dental bonding, it is advisable to avoid biting or chewing on hard objects, as this can potentially damage the bonded tooth. Additionally, while dental bonding is durable, it may not be as strong as natural teeth or other dental restorations like crowns. It is important to practice good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and attending dental check-ups to maintain the longevity of the bonded teeth.
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